FAMILY of well-like Devizes pub landlord Billy Costello were today at his hospital bedside after he was found dangerously ill at The Dolphin on Tuesday morning.

Ambulance, fire and police were called to Northgate Street at about 6.40am after Mr Costello was found unconscious in his accommodation above the pub.

Specialist fire crews with ropes were called to help get Mr Costello down a narrow staircase to an awaiting ambulance.

Police closed the road while the emergency crews to got him out of the building.

Yesterday he was still seriously ill in the Royal United Hospital, Bath. Police launched an inquiry into the background of the incident after the hatch leading to the cellar was found open.

A police spokesman said: “We closed Northgate Street while we dealt with an incident.

“Officers were called at approximately 6.40am following a report that a man had been found requiring urgent medical attention. At this stage, it is not yet known whether a crime has taken place.”

Today Act Insp Pete Foster said: "CID attended due to the circumstances, but no concerns raised so closed as a medical incident with no further police action."

Devizes fire crew manager Richard Lake said: “We were called because the staircase was very narrow. The rope team had a specialist stretcher which made it easier.”

Mr Costello took over The Dolphin pub in 2010 and made it a popular drinking place for football fans.

A family member thanked wellwishers who sent messages Facebook.